Members of United Jewish Federation of Tidewater’s Patrons of the Arts gathered at Aviva Pembroke on Wednesday, May 20 for a screening of Once Upon My Mother. The film tells the story of a mother’s unwavering devotion as she helps her son, born with a clubfoot in 1963, overcome physical challenges and social barriers while navigating life’s ups and downs.
Patron of the Arts donors, Beth Scharlop (co-chair of the Jewish Film Festival) and Roger Schultz attended the event.
“We appreciate the Patron of the Arts program for its support of the Jewish Book Festival, Jewish Film Festival, and other Jewish cultural programs that enrich our lives in Tidewater,” says Scharlop.
As part of a broader collaboration with Beth Sholom Village and Aviva Pembroke, attendees were also given the opportunity to tour Aviva’s facility.
“We really enjoyed the screening of Once Upon My Mother and tour of the Aviva residences. As always, it is a more meaningful experience to watch films together and discuss them with community members,” says Schultz.
Fay Silverman, chair of Beth Sholom Village’s board of directors, says, “The Beth Sholom Village Board was grateful for the opportunity to support the Jewish Film Festival this past year. Providing meaningful Jewish-themed stories and cultural experiences is an important part of our community outreach and engagement efforts.
“We also want to congratulate the Patron of the Arts community on a very successful year. Beth Sholom Village is especially appreciative of the opportunity to share several of the films with residents at Aviva Pembroke, helping to bring these enriching experiences directly to our senior community,” says Silverman.
The film screening was part of the enhanced Patron of the Arts donor benefit structure, introduced for the 2025 – 2026 season, which focuses on creating exclusive artistic and cultural experiences for supporters. In addition to the film screening, qualifying donors receive increased access to Arts + Ideas guest speakers, pre-sale access to Jewish Film Festival tickets, and other opportunities.
The 2026 – 2027 Patron of the Arts season launches in July. To learn more about supporting Jewish arts and culture throughout Tidewater, contact Heather Nevins, UJFT’s development manager, at HNevins@UJFT.org or 757-452-6925, or visit JewishVA.org/SupportTheArts.
Patrons of the Arts goes to Aviva Pembroke for cinema and connection
